Architects' Choice

solar sandwich

In lieu of bulky solar panels, Vandervort specifies Silicon Energy's Cascade Series PV modules (as he did for this home). “These neatly built modules sandwich polycrystalline silicon cells between two panels of glass,” he explains, resulting in “a clean-looking, durable unit” that mounts easily and won't compete with his design. According to the manufacturer, the 48-inch-wide panels' cascade design sheds water and ice easily. Silicon Energy, 360.618.6500; www.silicon-energy.com.